Drafty castles, stone construction, floors strewn with rushes, noble ladies' trailing gowns... Anyone who's read any historical fiction set in the Middle Ages is familiar with these popular Medieval motifs, but I have been troubled by a number of questions about these items. Perhaps we have some period history mavens who can ease my confusion? (Warning: Long! Strewn! Possibly moldy.) [more inside]
posted by taz on Sep 23, 2009 - 28 answers

Law question. The Constitution prohibits the United States awarding titles of nobility, right? So is it illegal if a Congressman holds a ceremony crowning someone king? What if it's part of a religious ceremony? What cases have explored this area?
posted by inksyndicate on May 4, 2004 - 16 answers